2015 Winter: Focus on Ability

FOCUS ON A Newsletter by ODC, Inc.

ability

WINTER 2015

2014 ANNUAL AWARD RECIPIENTS HONORED

LEFT: Dennis (middle) and his wife, Susan (left) celebrate his 2014 Personal Achievement Award with Raquel Szymanski (right) of ODC. | RIGHT: Awards for Employer of the Year, Partnership and Volunteer Service were also given at the 2014 Annual Awards Dinner.

For Pam Ross, ODC President, the organization’s annual awards dinner is an inspiring celebration of hard work and success.

“We have so many things to celebrate,” said Ross, “and so many people to thank for their contribution to our successes.

Most importantly, we have such inspiring personal achievements to recognize.”

This year, the ODC awards dinner brought together over 120 individuals with disabilities, ODC staff and volunteers, community partners, donors and other supporters to honor six individuals and organizations. Two individuals with

disabilities, one from Wisconsin Rapids and one from Marshfield, were recognized with the Personal Achievement Award, which is presented to individuals who have overcome a significant barrier to employment. Selection is based upon number of years of employment, growth within that work experience, a positive work ethic, and evidence of good citizenship in the workplace and community.

Awards were also presented for partnership and volunteerism, and both a Marshfield and a Wisconsin Rapids employer of the year were honored.

Empowering People With Disabilites To Achieve

DENNIS WINCH

PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD RECIPIENT Raquel Szymanski, ODC Transition Coordinator, sums up why Winch was chosen for the Personal Achievement Award with these words: “Dennis is the true definition of a good, honest, hardworking person.”

Winch began his work at the ODC center in Wisconsin Rapids in 2002. He continues to work at the center while holding seasonal grounds-keeping positions at Fey Printing, Air SEE AWARDS / PAGE 4

In Our Own Words

1191 Huntington Avenue Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494

This column, In Our Own Words, features the inspiring words and stories of those on the front lines of ODC’s mission: our staff, our volunteers and our supporters, as well as the parents and caregivers of people with disabilities. Together, we achieve!

“What exactly does ODC do?” was the very first question I asked my husband, Lyle, when

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he accepted a position on the Opportunity Development Centers Board of Directors

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several years ago. I had lived in Marshfield

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the amazing work that ODC does in our very

for 30+ years and really had no idea about own community. Now, I don’t exactly think of myself as having my head in the sand, but

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WOW, talk about “out of touch!” After a brief mini-course from Lyle, I was pleased that such a wide-­reaching program existed in this area.

The 2012 ODC Annual Awards Banquet (the first I had attended) was one of those “life-­changing moments” for me. The heartfelt joy, pride, love and sense of accomplishment that filled the room that evening brought me to tears. I was hooked! I was astonished not only by the amazing accomplishments that people with all types of disabilities had achieved, but by the overwhelming love and commitment that ODC staff have for every person whose lives they touch.

That night, during our drive home from Wisconsin Rapids, my husband and I had a very heartfelt conversation about practical ways to help the Marshfield community understand, embrace and ultimately support the essential services provided by ODC. We tossed around several ideas, and finally settled on suggesting a fundraiser of some variety. After approaching the ODC board with our ideas, the ODC “friend-raiser” called

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Evening to Inspire was born! And from that point on, I’m “IN” up to my eyeballs! I have found that, as challenging and as exhausting as it can be to organize these events, I have never felt so rewarded on so many levels!

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ODC held their second annual enjoyable and impactful Marshfield Evening to Inspire event in October. Based on unique themes (this year was an Oktoberfest party, and yes, I wore a dirndl!), these events are designed to inform and engage the community by showcasing the deeply personal

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stories of ability and success of ODC clients as they strive to achieve their

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at ODC, our generous community will consider offering employment

personal goals. It is my hope that by exposing the remarkable work done opportunities, valuable time by volunteering, and vital financial support.

Lyle and I plan on being an active part of ODC long after his term on the

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board is finished. We consider ourselves very blessed to be part of an organization and affiliated with people that truly know what it means to “love unconditionally”.

Julie Lang, 2014 John P. Melsen Volunteer Service Award recipient and creator of ODC’s Evening to Inspire “friend-raising” event

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Opportunity Development Centers, Inc.

FEDERAL FUNDING POLICY ALLOWS FOR CONTINUATION OF CENTER-BASED SERVICES In 2015, ODC is celebrating 50 years of serving our community.

Over the years, we have made significant progress in developing programs to meet the emerging needs of people with disabilities by offering work training programs in our centers in Wisconsin Rapids and Marshfield, community employment programs and day services programs.

Over the past few years, there has been a great deal of discussion on the state and federal level regarding federal funding policies that could dramatically change the way ODC operates. The intent behind this policy discussion has been to ensure that people with disabilities are not segregated or isolated, and that they have ample opportunities to access and participate in the community, just like everyone else. Part of this discussion has revolved around whether or not center-based services, such as the work and day services programs that happen within ODC’s facilities, would be considered segregated settings and therefore not eligible for federal funding.

About a year ago, the federal Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued some new rules defining the qualities that need to be in place for residential settings where people with disabilities live. At that time, CMS also stated they would be issuing further guidance on how these rules would apply to non-residential settings, including work and day services program settings.

ODC and advocates across the state have been concerned about the potential that CMS’ policies might be very stringent and not allow for individuals to be served in center-based settings.

Although ODC has strong community-based employment programs, and many of our day services activities happen within the community, we also serve many people within our centerbased programs, including people with significant support needs.

The people we serve value the choice of settings, and they and their families have been very concerned about the possibility of losing the center-based options.

Just before the end of the 2014, CMS issued their guidance regarding non-residential settings. The good news is that the guidance does not prohibit center-based services, nor does it require states to “phase out” the use of center-based services. The guidance allows for states to determine how they will operate, and requires that states assess all settings to determine if they have certain qualities in place that provide access to the community, integration in the community, and opportunities to seek employment in the community. All settings need to be in compliance by March 2019.

ODC will need to ensure that our programs and settings meet the requirements. We have been working hard over the years to expand our community employment programs and ensure that all of our programs incorporate choice and access to community opportunities. By increasing community employment and community-based day services opportunities, we will continue to focus on helping individuals connect to community.

TOP: A Team Wisconsin is an advocacy group founded by Individuals with disabilities and their families whose mission is to protect the full array of service choices for people with disabilities. Members of ODC’s A Team Chapter (above) participated in a “Day at the Capitol” in February 2014, where they had the opportunity to speak with state legislators about protecting and sustaining all choices that promote independence. Another “Day at the Capitol” is planned for February 18, 2015.

Empowering People With Disabilites To Achieve

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AWARDS Communications and Adlee Construction.

He also performs grounds-keeping duties throughout the seasons at ODC.

Gosh began his employment at the ODC center in Marshfield just after graduating from high school in 2006. According to Blanchard, he had little work experience and wasn’t sure what he wanted to do or even if he wanted a job.

“Dennis has been with us through the summers for about four years now,” said Terry Radtke, Maintenance at Fey Printing. “He does a fantastic job... he’s reliable, a very good worker and we’re so pleased to have him with us.”

“He wasn’t even sure he wanted to work two days a week in ODC’s center,” said Blanchard. “Now, he has successfully moved from struggling to work four hours a week to handling two jobs and working 32 hours per week!”

According to Szymanski, Dennis has proven to all of his employers that he is an asset to their business.

In the fall of 2006, Gosh was hired at McMillan Electric on a part-time basis.

Then, in 2010, he was ready to tackle a new challenge and accepted a job detailing cars at Associated Sales and Leasing, where he still works today. In March of this year, he took a second job at Lang Furniture, where he also continues to work part-time.

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“Regardless of what he may be struggling with,” said Szymanski, “he continues to excel and grow. It is a joy and complete inspiration being able to see Dennis get through hardships and continue to keep moving forward and bettering himself.”

Winch’s wife, Susan, who also works at the ODC center, agrees that Dennis is an inspiration.

This summer, Gosh moved out of his parent’s home and into an apartment. He also became engaged and plans to marry in 2015. Jim has developed not only his career but his independence, his character and his contribution to community.

“I see in life,” he said, “that you are always going to be a success if you work hard.”

“He’s an awesome guy,” she said. “He tries hard, give his all and does his best. I’m so proud of him, and I love him.”

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EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR AWARD, WISCONSIN RAPIDS

JIM GOSH

Ann Lepak, ODC Director of Employment Services, states that without all of the businesses that employ through ODC, the organization’s mission could never be fulfilled.

PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD RECIPIENT According to Mary Blanchard, ODC Employment Resource Manager, it has been a rewarding experience to watch Jim Gosh use every opportunity he’s been given to get where he is today.

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Recently, an opportunity arose for another ODC employee to work at Lang Furniture and Gosh was asked if he would consider providing transportation for that individual. Without hesitation, he stated that “people have helped me get to where I am today”, so he wanted someone else to have that same opportunity.

“When I was first at ODC,” said Gosh, “I was nervous. But the more I worked, I was comfortable.”

“When he’s riding on a lawnmower, he’s in his glory,” said Susan Winch. “He takes me around and shows me what he does after he’s done working, and I tell him that he makes it look just like a football field!”

“Jim has faced each challenge and overcome each obstacle he’s encountered along the way,” said Blanchard. “He now has the maturity and confidence to know that he can handle anything that comes his way.”

“When he started on his path to successful employment, Jim required a job coach to be with him 100% of the time,” said Blanchard. “But with each new experience, he continued to prove to himself that he could be successful with new challenges. His confidence soared. His connection to his coworkers increased. His loyalty to his employers solidified. His dependency on ODC drastically reduced.”

Jim has worked for McMillan Electric (top) and is currently detailing cars for Associated Sales and Leasing (bottom). He also works at Lang Furniture.

“Our employers provide the opportunity for the individuals we serve to be valued and contributing members of our community,” said Lepak. “And for that, we say ‘thank you!’”

Lepak was particularly pleased to present the Employer of the Year award to Walmart, which has been involved in Opportunity Development Centers, Inc.

“Scotty is a great example of the kind of employer that ODC wants to work with,” said Gudmunsen. “He employs two ODC workers, and he has never once balked at some of the struggles that either of them might have. He does not look at the disability, but at the abilities of each of them.”

According to Gudmunsen, Scotty understands the challenges that both individuals face. He has never once looked at them as “different”, or at the situation as “challenging”.

“Scotty is always there to give both of his employees guidance,” said Gudmunsen, “and always with a smile.”

JULIE LANG TOP: Ryan was hired by Walmart in August 2014.

ODC’s employment program for nearly 30 years. Walmart has allowed individuals to try out jobs of interest, provided them with an opportunity to gain valuable work experience, given feedback to workers and ODC staff to allow them to evaluate a person’s skills, and offered permanent employment to several individuals.

“The success of the relationship is a direct result of the partnership we have with two key Walmart employees, Debbie Beamish and Cindy Zager,” said Lepak. “They truly want the employees to succeed, and they go the extra mile to make sure that happens. One employee has had a successful 30-year career at Walmart because of their support over the years.”

SCOTTY'S PIZZA & CHICKEN

EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR AWARD, MARSHFIELD Scott Berg, owner of Scotty’s Pizza and Chicken, has been working with ODC to employ people with disabilities for the last 18 years. According to Eric Gudmunsen, ODC Transition Coordinator, Scotty has established himself and his business as strong supporters of ODC and their mission in the community.

TOP: Scott Berg (right) of Scotty’s Pizza & Chicken is “always there to give both of his employees guidance, and always with a smile.”

Empowering People With Disabilites To Achieve

JOHN P. MELSEN VOLUNTEER AWARD Julie Lang of Marshfield was recipient of the 2014 John P. Melsen Volunteer Award, which was developed in honor of John Melsen, who served on ODC’s board of directors from 1991-1995 and made a tremendous impact on the agency.

The same enthusiasm and passion has been demonstrated by Lang who, in 2013, created ODC’s Evening to Inspire “friendraising” event.

“After attending ODC’s annual awards dinner in 2012, Julie and her husband, Lyle, wondered if there was a way to create an event that would bring the same feeling of inspiration to others, to get them more engaged in our mission,” said Pam Ross, ODC President. “Would they be inspired to become friends of ODC, and possibly employers or contributors?”

“There are many people that have ideas, but not as many who are really willing to invest themselves in making the idea become a reality,” said Ross. “Julie truly invested her time, talent, energy and resources to create an event that people SEE AWARDS / PAGE 6

Julie Lang created a beautiful Oktoberfest atmosphere for the 2014 ODC Evening to Inspire friend-raising event at West 14th Restaurant in Marshfield

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AWARDS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

enjoy attending, that builds awareness and community support for ODC and the people we serve.”

To date, ODC has hosted three Evening to Inspire events, two of which were held in Marshfield and organized by their creator, Julie Lang. The events have helped ODC to share their message with existing friends and to create new friends.

“I am extremely grateful to Julie for sharing her amazing gifts with ODC,” said Ross.

Lang shared her favorite quote with ODC staff, one she strives to live by. It was spoken by Mother Teresa, and reads: “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.”

“It is my sincere hope to do small things with great love for the benefit of ODC,” said Lang.

WOODTRUST - BELL FOUNDATION, INC.

PARTNERSHIP AWARD

ODC is fortunate to have many partners that help the organization accomplish its mission to empower people with disabilities to achieve their work and life goals.

“This year’s Partnership Award recipients are true friends of ODC,” said Ross. “They truly believe in what we do, believe in our staff members, and genuinely care about the people we serve.”

The WoodTrust-Bell Foundation, established in 1994 by Steve and Paula Bell in honor of Steve’s father, Chet, has been a strong supporter of ODC for many years. The foundation focuses primarily on supporting scholarships, youth and health care in the communities they represent.

“When I look back at the things we’ve been able to accomplish with the help of the foundation,” said Ross, “I could sum it up by saying that they’ve helped to ‘give life’ to new ideas, to start or improve programs and operations that we believe will make a positive impact on our mission. With every gift, there is an endorsement that tells us ‘we are happy to help ODC accomplish good things’.”

Examples of projects that the WoodTrust-Bell Foundation has supported include remodels and upgrades to ODC’s Wisconsin Rapids center that improve accessibility and programming, purchase of a van for transporting work crews and day services outings, and purchase of a new phone system for the building. p6

TOP: Toni Koeshall (right) provides job training in ODC’s Hidden Creek Kitchen, thanks to a WoodTrust – Bell Foundation gift that supports her position. | BOTTOM: ODC’s wheelchair-accessible van was purchase with funds donated by the WoodTrust – Bell Foundation.

They also funded construction of, and later expansion of, Hidden Creek Kitchen in the Wisconsin Rapids center, and provided support for a job trainer position in the kitchen.

Hidden Creek Kitchen provides thousands of hours of work skills training for individuals with disabilities each year.

Not only does the Foundation support organizational projects, but for many years have provided a fund that purchases Christmas gifts for the people served by ODC. “It is heartwarming to see how far those funds can go in letting people know that someone cares about them,” said Ross.

“It is truly the essence of the holiday spirit!”

Opportunity Development Centers, Inc.

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Board of Directors Lyle Lang Chairperson

President Lang Furniture

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Josh Linn Secretary

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Opportunity Development Centers, Inc. 1191 Huntington Avenue Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494

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ODC is proud to provide Central Wisconsin with an environmentally friendly option for disposal of electronic equipment.

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